Without cortisol, a person can die. In times of stress, illness or injury, the steroid dose should be increased to meet the body¿s greater need. If you fail to do this, it could lead to life-threatening low blood pressure. In the event of an illness that affects your entire body, you should increase your dose of steroids and call your doctor.

If you are on cortisol replacement therapy, you should wear a medic alert bracelet or necklace to alert paramedics or doctors about your need for steroids in the event you are found unconscious.

If the dose of steroids is too high, the results may include:

• Weight gain
• A rounded face
• Acne
• High blood pressure
• Abnormal blood sugars